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Sport Nation
Why the ‘prodigal son’ needs to help Waratahs capture the imagination of its fans
Nicholas Quinlan • February 14th, 2025 12:20 pm
SEN's Andrew Voss has stressed the importance of Joseph Suaalii needing a strong season to help generate support in the NSW Waratahs and the Super Rugby within Australia.
After being the wooden spooners in last season’s competition, the Waratahs have made a point to avoid repeating a similar result with Suaalii being the most high-profile signing for the Waratahs side after making the switch from Rugby League to Union.
On SEN’s Breakfast with Vossy and Matt Russell, Voss discussed the interest in Suaalii may help draw interest in the Waratahs but will not keep fans engaged if results are lacklustre like last season.
“It is the coming of the prodigal son.” Voss exclaimed.
“The Waratahs have to start well, they have to start well to capture any imagination or the bells and whistles around Joseph Suaalii, I believe will dissipate.”
“I don’t think that interest (in the Waratahs) will be prolonged. If they lose, then who’s going week three or four to see him play.”
Suaalii named fullback for Waratahs opener | Beaver & Guy
Suaalii has made an impressive start to his rugby career. The 21-year-old debuted for the Wallabies during their Northern Hemisphere tour where he claimed man of the match honours in the last-gasp 42-37 win over England at Twickenham.
The Waratahs have been able to pick up plenty of big name signings following the liquidation of the Melbourne Rebels at the end of the 2024 season. Multiple Wallabies capped players such as Andrew Kellaway, Rob Leota and Taniel Tupou amongst others have since joined the Waratahs.
This now sees the Waratahs' starting line-up include 11 Wallabies capped players.
Veteran broadcaster Matt Russell believes the Waratahs will face a mountain of pressure if they lose their opening match against the Highlanders on Friday night.
“Have you seen that Waratahs team? It is star-studded,” Russell said on SEN 1170 Breakfast.
“Wallabies across the line-up. If they don’t win, you’re thinking, hang on how can you not win with that line up.”
Suaalii will make his Waratahs debut tonight as they kick off their Super Rugby season when they host the Highlanders at Allianz Stadium.
